10 Last Minute Tips Before the Early Application Deadlines

Many of the Early Decision and Early Action deadlines are days away. November 1 is a popular deadline. Before you click the "submit" button on your application, you want to make sure that you have done everything you can.

Here are some last minute tips to follow before your application is finalized.

1. Review the entire application and supplement to check for typos and errors.

2. Have a trusted adult review the application and supplement too.

"Typos make you look bad. Make sure you review your application thoroughly to catch any mistakes before you submit!" TWEET THIS

This will signal to the colleges that you did not see the letters of recommendation written for you. If you don't waive FERPA, colleges will question how truthful the letter-writer was knowing that the student saw what was written.

4. Sign off (and have a parent and your counselor) on the binding agreement if you are applying to an Early Decision program.

5. Check to make sure that all the test scores you are self-reporting are what you want the colleges to see.

For example, if you are applying to one college under their test optional policy and a handful of other colleges where test scores are required, do not self-report your scores on the application unless you plan to make changes to each application.

6. Review your transcript with your counselor to ensure there are no mistakes on it.

7. Self-report test scores or send off official score reports from the College Board (for SAT and Subject Tests) and the ACT.

These score reports take time to reach the colleges so make sure to do this as soon as possible if you haven't done so already.

8. Follow up with your letter-writers to ensure that your letters are written.

9. If you are applying for need based financial aid, send in all necessary forms like the FAFSA, the CSS Profile (if required), and any other required forms.

10. Plan to submit your application at least 24-48 hours in advance of the deadline just in case there is an issue with submission.

Submitting the first application is the hardest. But once you do, you will be surprised at how empowering it is. When you do your best, you have no regrets. Good luck with finishing your applications!

Sara Harberson is the founder of SaraHarberson.com, which provides personalized advice to college applicants and their families, and AdmissionsRevolution.com, a free, on demand video membership that demystifies college admissions.
She is the former associate dean of admissions at the University of Pennsylvania and the former dean of admissions and financial aid at Franklin & Marshall College. Sara’s philosophy is that every kid applying to college deserves the best advice.